Food and Nutrition Operations Specialist

Southeast Polk Community School District • Chicago, IA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Operations Specialist is responsible for assisting in the coordination of the nutrition services department including staff training, daily on-site support, evaluation, menu planning and development, quality assurance, student satisfaction, purchasing and procurement of goods, marketing, special programming and assisting the Director of Nutrition Services with day to day operations of the department.

Requirements

• High school diploma plus additional coursework/certification in Dietetics, Food Service Management, or Nutrition.
• ServSafe Certified or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• Demonstrates the ability to follow directions and complete tasks in a timely manner.
• Demonstrates the ability to problem solve and promote a positive team driven environment.
• Demonstrates the ability to work effectively and respectfully with staff, students and families, and the general public.
• Demonstrates the ability to communicate with diverse populations both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrates the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrates the ability to provide work direction and respond to requests in a courteous and helpful manner.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's Degree in Dietetics, Food Service Management, Nutrition or related field.
• Prior experience in a similar role in the K-12 setting.
• Supervision of nutrition staff a plus.
• Experience with purchasing, receiving and inventory and cost analysis procedures.
• Experience with large quantity meal planning and preparation in a K-12 setting.
• Experience utilizing nutrition related software for nutrient analysis, recipe development, production records, costing and point of sale systems.
• Demonstrates the ability to evaluate and improve the work environment for employees.
• Demonstrates the ability to provide work direction and respond to requests in a courteous and helpful manner.
• General knowledge of the USDA Food & Nutrition programs and regulations.
• Demonstrates the ability to lead a group of individuals in the successful completion of tasks and meeting of goals.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision and ongoing support to Head Cooks and Cooks across assigned buildings
• Assist in resolving personnel issues and participate in performance evaluations, and staff development.
• Train new staff, support adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), and lead staff training sessions.
• Fill in for cooks and head cooks as assigned to maintain operational efficiency
• Monitor and support compliance with USDA meal pattern requirements, Iowa DOE regulations and health department standards
• Assist with hands-on training for support staff in the use of nutrition department software systems
• Assist with system maintenance and updates in collaboration with district IT as needed
• Use technology platforms to promote school nutrition programs and initiatives.
• Assist in planning, preparing and overseeing the service of large-quantity meals that meet USDA nutritional guidelines for K-12 settings
• Support compliance with all federal, state, and local food safety and nutrition regulations
• Assist in developing menus for various school nutrition programs
• Assist in standardizing recipes and providing nutrient analysis, allergen information, and descriptive labels using software
• On a daily basis, evaluate food quality, service efficiency and adherence to policies and procedures
• Collaborate with nutrition team on initiatives to improve program participation and student satisfaction
• Assist with purchasing, receiving, inventory management, and cost analysis to ensure efficient food service operations.
• Assist in coordinating procurement processes in alignment with district policies and USDA requirements.
• Maintain food safety standards through proper handling, storage, and documentation practices.
• Participate in daily ordering as needed
• Assist with and help plan taste tests and student focused events
• Actively participate in promoting nutrition education
• Actively participate in initiatives for gathering student feedback
• Assist with and create presentations for internal and external staff and students
• Assist with and help lead wellness committee meetings and initiatives
• Perform all responsibilities ethically and professionally, maintaining confidentiality where appropriate.
• Communicate effectively across departments, contributing to a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Demonstrate leadership as a proactive team member within the school community.
• Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Participates in and completes required training
• Perform all other duties as may be assigned

Benefits

• Salary as determined by Board of Education.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED